Suction Cup vs. Dashboard Phone Mounts: A Comparative Analysis
In today's digital era, our smartphones double as navigational aids, entertainment systems, and crucial communication devices during our drives. Consequently, selecting the appropriate phone mount for your car has become a critical decision.
Mounting Locations
| Feature | Suction Cup Mounts | Dashboard Mounts |
|---|---|---|
| Placement Flexibility | Can be mounted on the windshield, dashboard, or center console, offering versatile viewing angles. | Typically attaches directly to the dashboard, offering a stable and less intrusive setup. In this comparison, we are not including vent clip mounts. |
| Legal Compliance & Visibility | Windshield placement may be illegal in some areas and typically obstructs the drivers view. | Generally does not obstruct the driver's view and is less likely to be affected by legal restrictions. |
| Vehicle Specificity | Not specific to vehicle type, offering a universal solution. | Some models are designed for specific vehicles, providing an integrated appearance. |
Variety vs. Durability
| Feature | Suction Cup Mounts | Dashboard Mounts |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Available in various designs, including long-arm and articulated models for adjustable viewing angles. | Includes clip-on and custom-fit designs tailored to specific dashboard layouts. Depending on the mount, they can have a factory look |
| Installation & Portability | Easy to install and remove without tools, making it ideal for use across multiple vehicles. | Typically offers a more secure installation perhaps with some basic tools, reducing the likelihood of shifting or falling. In most cases, the dash doesn't need to be removed, nor is it damaged. |
Durability
| Feature | Suction Cup Mounts | Dashboard Mounts |
|---|---|---|
| Sensitivity to Temperature | May lose it's hold and fall off over time due to exposure to extreme temperatures. | Resistant to temperature changes, offering consistent performance. |
| Maintenance Needs | Requires regular cleaning of both the suction cup and the surface for optimal adherence. | In some cases, you may need to tighten up a screw. |
| Quality | Typically made from lower-grade plastics which can break with on-going use. | Some dash mounts are made of high-quality plastics (similar to your dash itself). |
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Drive
Deciding between a suction cup and a dashboard phone mount boils down to weighing factors like flexibility, stability, and maintenance against your specific needs and vehicle design.
If you value the ability to adjust positions easily or switch between different vehicles, a suction cup mount might be the right choice for you. Conversely, if your priorities lie in durability, minimal maintenance, and preserving a clear view, a dashboard mount could be the more suitable option.
A Better Way to Mount Your Phone
Don't settle for cheap and flimsy one-size-fits-most phone mounts that wobble in your vents or suction cups that consistently fall off. There's a better, more solid way to mount your phone.
The Mounting Base
Our exact-fit mounting bases are made specifically for most car and truck models. The mounts easily snap into the seams of the dashboard for a solid and secure fit so you can mount your phone with confidence.
The Device Holder
Our holders are designed specifically for your smartphone, GPS, or other mobile devices. Phone holder options can fit phones with or without cases, and charge wirelessly or with charging cables.
Phone not listed? Shop our Universal Holders